The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has raised concerns over the recent closure of seven private radio stations in Ghana, warning that the move sets a dangerous precedent for press freedom and media pluralism in the country.

The shutdown, which affected stations including Bawku-based Gumah FM, was ordered by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, citing national security grounds and violations of broadcasting regulations. The government maintains that the actions were legal and necessary to uphold broadcasting standards, with six of the stations accused of operating without valid frequency authorisations.

However, the MFWA has expressed concerns over the fairness and transparency of the closures, particularly the role of political interference in media regulation. The foundation highlighted that radio plays a vital role in promoting inclusion and diverse political opinions, and any government intervention in broadcasting could raise suspicions of political targeting.

The MFWA specifically questioned the closure of Gumah FM, arguing that the issue should be handled by the independent National Media Commission (NMC) rather than government officials. It stressed the importance of having impartial, evidence-based decisions on media regulation to avoid political influence.

In its statement, the MFWA called for urgent reforms that would transfer broadcast licensing and regulatory authority from the National Communications Authority (NCA) to the NMC, to ensure greater independence and safeguard press freedom.

The warning from the MFWA comes amid growing concerns over media restrictions in Ghana, with several shutdowns of media outlets occurring since the administration of President Nana Akufo-Addo took office in 2017.

Source:TheDotNews